Art of the West is the High Desert Museum’s annual exhibition and silent auction of fine art depictions of the western U.S. by contemporary artists. This year’s exhibition features 59 works by 38 artists including Charley Griswold, Meg Kahnle, Julie Oriet, Dan Rickards and Craig Zuger, to name a few.

The public is invited to an opening reception on July 21 from 6–8pm for a “first view” opportunity where they may place a bid or select the “purchase outright” option on a beautiful piece of artwork. There will be artist demonstrations and live music at the opening reception.

“This exhibition brings to life the beauty and diversity of the High Desert,” said the Museum’s Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “The various artists see this landscape and its inhabitants in such different ways then translate that point of reference through their artwork.”

Art of the West culminates with the live and silent auctions at the Museum’s signature annual fundraising gala, the High Desert Rendezvous on August 2. Tickets for the event, the 27th annual Rendezvous, are now available on the Museum’s website. Proceeds from the High Desert Rendezvous and Art of the West auction help support educational programs at the Museum.

“This year’s show includes a wonderful array of artistic styles and media including watercolor, oil, pastel, acrylic, mixed media, photography and sculpture,” said Development Associate of Corporate Relations Erika Erkel. “This exhibit and celebration is a great place to invite friends, colleagues or clients to share with them inspiring artistic interpretations of the West.” A gallery of the artwork will be available to preview on the Museum’s website prior to the opening.

In addition to the artwork, local artists Sharon Engel and Norma Holmes will do painting demonstrations throughout the evening while Alicia Viani and Mark Karwan will entertain guests with their sweet folky-jazz sound. Guests can also enjoy light refreshments and a no-host bar, as well as mingle with some of the artists attending the opening. Art of the West and the High Desert Rendezvous are presented by Bank of the Cascades and supported by Hayden Homes.